Chapter 1

"What are you doing, pet?" Spike asked softly as he stepped out onto the balcony and took a position slightly behind his mated. He hadn't been able to stop grinning from the moment he'd woken up with the small-ish redhead firmly entrenched in his mind as well as his heart. It should have bothered him, he knew, that she would be able to feel him the same way he did her, but somehow it just... didn't. He was *glad*, in fact! She had understood him so well even before the mating; he could only *imagine* the way she'd be able to anticipate him now! He smirked slightly as she giggled under her breath, and stepped closer to her. "Hey!" he chided, his arms wrapping themselves around her trim waist, "No fair listening in!"

Willow giggled again, and leaned back against him, smiling at the way his naturally cool body felt warm when compared with the frigid winter air. "Sorry, love, but I can't *help* it!" Her smile slowly faded, and she asked him the question she'd been wondering about. "Spike..." she hesitated a moment before forging ahead. "Is Angel the kind of person who would lie about something just to make you feel... better about it?"

He thought about it for a moment before shaking his head lightly against her hair. "No, luv, he isn't. Why?"

She sighed, tilting her head to the side as she answered. "Well, when I talked to him and Faith... they basically told me that the mating was... not like this. That it took an *effort* to feel each other, and..." She shook her head, confused.

Spike could feel his grin fading, and he turned the girl around so he could see her eyes. "You... are you... sorry, Willow?" he said, trying to keep the hurt from his expression. If she *was* sorry, he didn't know what he would do. He'd waited so *long* to meet her, even if he hadn't known what it was he was waiting for. His eyes moved from hers as he prepared himself to hear the worst.

Her eyes widened at the feelings she was sensing from him, and she quickly pressed herself tightly against him, her lips barely brushing his cheek as she replied. "Am I sorry?" she repeated softly, "No! Of *course* not! I just... I'm wondering why they *lied* to me. I'm *glad* that I can feel you; sense you, but I'm starting to wonder if..." She sighed. "I wonder if we can trust them."

Spike could tell he was grinning again. "Oh, is *that* all..." He cut off his explanation as he felt her shivering against him. "Come on, pet, you're cold. Let's get you inside and we'll discuss this all you like." He grinned even more widely when she started to pull herself from his arms. "Ah- ah..." he purred, lifting her against him, "You don't actually think I'm gonna let you *go*, do you?" He turned and carried her to the doors, holding her with one hand as he opened them and stepped through, sliding them shut behind him. "After all, we have that *bond* to contend with..."

Willow giggled, remembering the way Angel and Faith seemed to always be going at it... if they weren't *in* bed, they seemed to be either headed that way, or just coming from there. "Hmmm... horrors!" she teased, her tongue lightly skimming the bite she'd given him, and she laughed a bit more when he growled. She held on to his shoulders tightly when he raced to their bedroom, and smiled softly as he placed her on the bed. "You were going to explain," she reminded him seriously as he joined her after closing and locking their door.

The blond sighed, wanting only to be deep inside his mated, but... he *had* said that he'd discuss the problem, and... she wouldn't be able to really enjoy their mating if she had thoughts of betrayal and distrust on her mind. He sighed again and leaned back against the headboard, pulling her tight against his chest. "They didn't lie." he stated, meeting her eyes. "They told you the truth as they knew it." He pressed one long, pale finger to her lips when she started to reply, and shook his head. "Just hear me out, luv." He pulled his finger away when she nodded slowly, and began again. "The bond... the mated bond, it's... not like this, you're right about that, but... What they told you was based on what they knew. Usually it's a struggle to feel your Mated, to sense their location or state of mind. Now, I know that's what it was like for them at first, but... it changed. I don't know why; maybe because of being part of the seven. And I think that's the reason it's different than usual for us, too. I mean, we were prophesied, and... add in the fact that you're a *witch*..." He trailed off and shook his head slightly again. "But I don't believe they would deliberately lie to you, luv. I don't think they *could*. You're *family*!"

The redhead smiled slightly. Maybe he was right. And maybe, just maybe, their bonds were different because different things would be required of them than were needed of most mated pairs. She thought that that was probably it, but... she made a mental note to talk to Faith about it in the morning. "OK," she finally murmured, her eyes roving his pale chest as the newly forged bond asserted itself. Her hand slipped smoothly down his body, toying for a moment with the buttons on his jeans. "Done talking now..." she purred, her lips finding their way to the seeping bite on his neck.

He groaned happily as she licked his cool skin, loving the way her tongue was teasing at his wound, and slid them down flat on the bed as she propped herself up on one elbow and began exploring him anew.

Rupert Giles strode angrily around the main room of his business, glad that most of the customers were gone. Ordinarily, that wasn't a feeling he'd have, but in *this* case... It had been almost twelve hours since he'd had Cordelia e-mail the new prophecy information to Willow, and thus far, their absent commander-in-chief hadn't seen fit to respond to them! He just hoped that whatever she was doing at her Aunt's wedding was more important than the end of the world.

But maybe, he reminded himself in an effort to calm his own anger, maybe she had some sort of a lead, and wanted to get all her facts straight before contacting him. The more he thought about that, the more likely it seemed. Willow was the type to completely throw herself into whatever she was involved in, and she was *also* the type to exhaust every avenue of information before commenting on a thing, so... Yes, that had to be it. She was researching, probably with the San Francisco coven, and she'd be contacting him any time now.

He sighed then, relieved, and handed the shop off to his night worker. He had to get home... Cordelia would be wondering what had kept him.

Drusilla waited patiently for her Grand Sire to say something... anything. She knew it had to be hard for the blonde to accept everything she'd so recently been told, especially since she had so many projects in the works with the Mayor, and various other dignitaries of Seattle, but... the facts were still the facts, and the sooner Darla accepted that, the better! After all, what good did it do to be the Master of the City if she couldn't change her mind from time to time? The dark-haired vampire grinned slightly as she caught sight of her childe pacing in the hallway outside the slightly opened door to Darla's office. "Xander," she called out stridently, "Come here!"

He knew he shouldn't have been listening at the door. If his Sire or his Great Grand Sire wanted him to know what was going on, they would have told him, but... even as a human, he'd been the curious sort, and that really hadn't changed much. He sighed to himself and stepped into the Master's office. Time to face the music... or flogging, which was actually a bit more likely. "Yes, Sire?" he said, staring fixedly at the floor. He wasn't sure if Dru would want that show of submission, but it was always better to be safe than sorry later.

Drusilla sighed out loud as she caught the look on her Grand Sire's face. The woman was pissed, and... she supposed she couldn't blame her. "Xander," she said again, quietly, "*Look* at me!" She waited until his eyes were locked firmly on hers before continuing. "I may be your Sire, boy, but... Darla has had the keeping of you. I know she's told you not to show submission to anyone other than her, and the fact that you're still alive shows me that you've learned how to obey." She held his eyes as she stood and took the few steps to stand before him. Her hand lashed out suddenly, catching him hard across the cheek. "Darla is the Matriarch of our Clan! She has the right to rule us all with a fist of iron if she so chooses, and she outranks me by at least a quarter of a millennium. You *will* obey her in all things... Do you understand?" She glared at him until he answered her with a silent and wide-eyed nod. "Good then," she said, suddenly sounding perky, "We won't have any more problems." She flounced back to her chair and flung herself into it, one knee dangling over the armrest. "Now, as I was saying... Xander, you've been listening in the hallway, and we both know it. *I*, for one, don't intend to make an issue of it, but what Darla chooses to do is entirely up to her." She waved the young vampire towards the couch, and smiled slightly when he sat, still rubbing his cheek. "That is a matter for the two of you, though, and it doesn't involve me at all. What *I* want to know is... what you think; what you feel about all of this." She glanced at the blonde woman and explained. "I think we might be too close to this, Grandmother... A fresh perspective couldn't hurt..."

The Master glanced between the two brunettes consideringly. She was almost tempted to ignore Dru's advice, based solely on the pique she'd felt at her boy's behaviour, but... Drusilla had handled that prettily enough, and... maybe the girl was right. As Master of Seattle, she had grown used to seeing things from a certain point of view, just as Drusilla had from working with the Slayer, so... "Yes, dear boy," she purred, her eyes narrowing to slits as she gazed upon him, "Tell us your thoughts."

Xander barely held in the shivers as he caught the dangerous glint in Darla's eyes, and his mind raced for a moment as he tried to remember what it was he was supposed to be having thoughts about. "Uhhh... the prophecy..." he muttered, relieved when the words seemed to jump-start his brain. "OK," he said, much more confidently, "The way I see it... we're dealing with at least two different prophecies at the moment. The first one is the one that brought my Si... um, Drusilla here, along with Willow, and the second... The second one is about *all* of us." He closed his eyes against the impatience in Darla's stare. "So, like I said, there are two prophecies. Or are there? I mean, think about it. In the one that's about all of us, some big bad beastie's gonna rise up and take over the world unless we can stop it. The humans will all die, and demons will rule." He opened his eyes again, getting two nods of agreement for the effort. "In the *other* prophecy, some new 'Master' is gonna rise and take over the world. The humans will die, and demons will rule." He almost smiled when both of the vampires looked at him in surprise. "So it seems to *me* that, aside from having more details on the one, we're looking at the same damned prophecy, only... we've got different time schedules for them, and... if Willow's trying to find a way to change some, or even *one* of the parameters, then that could explain *that*! One time for things to happen if she can change something, and one time for if she can't." His brow furrowed for a moment as he worked his way through what was bothering him. "But if she does change something, and the later date applies, then... won't it be harder to kill the thing? I mean, it will have been out for a while... But if that's true, then... why was the warning stronger for the earlier date?" He shook his head slowly. "I'm sorry, Si... Dru... Darla. That's the part I'm stuck on. I don't understand how a stronger beast makes for an easier defeat..."

Darla stared at the boy for a moment. "Go to your room, Xander. Change your clothes. We're going back to the hotel." She smiled slightly as he stood and left the room without throwing so much as a questioning *glance* her way, and turned her eyes to her Grand Childe. "You chose well when you turned him, Dru," she said softly, knowing the other woman would take it as the compliment it was.

The brunette smiled and leaned back against the arm of her chair. "And you did *very* well with the training of him. I sent him to the right place."

The two women smiled, understanding each other completely.

"What the *hell*?" Angel mumbled against his mated's smooth stomach as his doze was once again interrupted by the sounds coming from the next bedroom. "What are they *doing* in there?"

The dark haired former Slayer chuckled low and playfully. "What... you've forgotten already, old man?" She grinned down at him and snapped her jaw shut once, hard. "I could remind you, you know..."

The vampire groaned softly. "No, sweet, I meant... what are they up to? They've been at it for almost..." he glanced at the clock quickly before resting his head back against her smooth, warm skin, "Six hours now?"

Faith sighed dramatically. "I already *told* you what's going on, but you don't want to believe me!" She plastered a fake pout on her lips, but spoiled the effect by smiling when he moved to kiss her. "You don't think so?" she demanded when he finally pulled away and she could speak again, "Why don't you check? I'll bet you a hundred bucks! He mated her; I *know* it!"

Angel grinned sexily, her teasing having fully woken him up. "Fine, my love, but when I win, how am I going to collect? I mean, you don't have any money, so..."

She looked at him, feigning surprise. "But... I thought you said that what's yours is mine!"

He grinned happily, loving that his mated was such a little actress. "Ah, but this is a *bet*, sweetness... so what do I get when I win?" He purred softly when she raked her nails down his side, and lay back, pulling her on top of him. "Well?"

Faith chuckled again, staring down into his hot eyes. "Hmmm... whatever you want! Because," she elaborated at the shock in his eyes, "I'm *not* going to *lose*! Now, check!"

Angel rolled his eyes at her and concentrated for a moment as he felt his way gently down the bond with his favourite childe. After another moment, his eyes focused again on the girl on top of him, and he snaked one long arm out, grabbing his wallet from the bedside table. "Not one word," he warned as he counted his money. "Uhh... I, umm... only have sixty-eight dollars..." he said hesitantly to his mated one who was, at that particular moment, sitting astride him.

"Ohhh..." she said, rubbing herself firmly against his hard shaft, "That's a *shame*..." She leaned forward and placed her elbows on his chest before resting her chin on her palms and staring down into his eyes. "I guess I'll have to take it out in trade. Ah-ah," she admonished when he reached for her, "You're, ummm... thirty-two dollars short, so... you get to be my slave for.. Let me see, minimum wage is what? Five seventy-five an hour? So that's..."

"Minimum wage!" Angel growled, the smile clear in his eyes, "Surely I qualify as *skilled* labour?"

Faith gazed at him consideringly. "Well... maybe. I'm not sure..." She didn't even bother to try holding back her happy shriek as he grabbed her and rolled them over, and she giggled as he pressed her into the mattress with his full weight.

"I'll show you 'maybe', little girl," he purred as her legs wrapped themselves around his waist and he thrust home. "Maybe, indeed!" He groaned then at the feel of her straining beneath him, and didn't think anything else for quite some time.

Chapter 2

She'd been listening for hours, and so far had heard nothing but her new friends becoming even... *closer*, and while she was happy for them, she wasn't exactly thrilled that at least *four* of the seven seemed to be thinking about anything *but* the thing they were brought together to stop!

Of course, she reminded herself, they *were* all newly mated, and while she'd been given to understand that that sort of a bond required plenty of reinforcement right at first... maybe it was also necessary if they were going to function as a unit? She wasn't entirely sure, but she thought that was what she was going to say in her next report to the clan Elders. It might not be entirely true, but... there was no *way* that she'd take the chance that this assignment would be taken from her.

No, her direct line had worked too hard, for too many generations, for her to screw this up. This was the thing that would cement their place within the clan, forever and always. There was too much riding on this to mess up.

That didn't mean she was comfortable with it, though. Five vampires, a now-former Slayer, and a human witch... *these* were the people that the fate of the world-- and more-- depended on. She only hoped that they were strong enough to do what was needed.

She deliberately chose to ignore the fact that her entire body was screaming out for the youngest of the vampires, because... she had a *job* to do. She might, indeed, want him more than she'd thought possible, but... No. She'd initially thought him a pleasant diversion, but he'd turned out to be one of those she'd been sent to watch, and... that had to take precedence. He was her way in, and she couldn't afford to forget that... There was too much riding on it.

She sighed deeply, and stood from her chair by the small table in her room. She'd been putting it off long enough. Her latest report was coded and ready, and granted, it was rather short, but... William the Bloody had mated the witch, and the clan had to know that. It could change things completely... or not at all.

Her fingers shook slightly as she entered the appropriate code, and when her sending unit indicated a lock on the satellite overhead, she forced herself to transmit the information, all the while reminding herself that while she *liked* the Seven-- perhaps even *loved* one of them-- they were still out-clan... and she'd still given her word.

Spike had heard the phone ringing in the main room of the suite, but he'd deliberately chosen to ignore it. After all, he had his arms full of warm, redheaded witch, and there was just no *way* that he was going to move away from her heat, and perfect, soft skin, just to listen to some stupid blighter ramble on about continental breakfasts, or laundry service, or whatever *else* the hotel-people thought he might want. No, if he wanted something, he'd let them know, and right at the moment, they could all go hang for all *he* cared. He had everything he wanted, right there in his arms... in his bed... and right at the moment...? He honestly didn't care if the world ended, because his witch was actually *his*! His small grin spread wider as he felt his mated shift slightly in his arms, and he gazed fixedly at her pale, lovely face while her glorious green eyes opened to meet his blue ones. "Morning, love," he said softly.

She stretched against him, the very action causing her heart to race, and she smiled slyly in response to his happy grin. She could feel his contentment flowing through their bond, and answered it with her own. "Is it?" she asked silkily, "Morning, I mean?" Her hand traveled slowly over the pale perfection of his beautiful chest, fingers languidly tracing the outline of each defined muscle. She giggled softly when he groaned, and again when she felt him hardening against her. Her eyes darted swiftly to the heavily covered window, and she smirked slightly when she saw the bare edges of light around the corners. "I suppose it *is*," she continued, pushing him onto his back. "Why don't we see about making it a *good* morning, hmmm?"

Spike groaned again when she straddled him, his hands flying to her hips. "Sounds like a *plan*, love," he almost growled, shifting his hips beneath her and smiling when she moaned. "Now, the question is... just how good do you want to *make* it..." He tightened his fingers on her smooth skin, and rocked her hard against his straining shaft, chuckling darkly when she whimpered. "How about... *this* good, Willow?" he whispered, lifting her and sliding her hot, wet center down over his long, cool cock. His eyes rolled back as he growled deeply, and when he opened them again, he knew they were bright and golden. "Yeah..." he groaned, when she began to move.

His hands, clutching fiercely at her skin, were just as divine as she'd always thought them to be, and his strong, lean body, tense beneath her, was just... *perfect*. She stared into the eyes of his demon, her fingers trailing up his chest, and his neck. She paused for a moment at his strong cheekbones before moving on to the ridges of his forehead, and when he purred around yet another growl, she smiled, tenderly stroking them until he forced himself upright beneath her.

She was riding him, slowly and smoothly, and that was still just... amazing to him. But she was also caressing his true features, and gazing at him lovingly, and he could *feel* her in his mind, in his heart! He'd honestly never thought that he'd ever find anyone like her, and the fact that he'd not only *found* her, but that she *loved* him, *wanted* him? Well, that was just... nearly unbelievable. He *still* didn't understand what she saw in him, their past lives aside, but... He'd been fortunate enough to find her, and damn! She was his *Mated*! And she was... moving on him, holding his true face to her sweet breasts, and her breath was gusting out into his hair, and the only thing that could make this morning more perfect was...

She kept her motions slow and smooth-- regardless of the fact that she wanted to just *take* him, and take him hard-- and it was *almost* enough. But she could feel his fangs, scraping lightly against her skin when he moaned, and she wanted to taste him... feel him tasting her. Her fingers wrapped in his short blond hair, and she pulled his lips from her chest and stared wantonly into his eyes before lowering her mouth to the almost healed bite she'd given him earlier. She held herself still upon him, her tongue sweeping slowly... sensually... across the slight wound, and she grinned against his skin when he gasped and pulled her hips more tightly to him.

He almost couldn't believe that she was going to do it, but... she was licking him, and he could feel the excitement racing through her, and God help him, he was only moments away from begging. He actually tried to form the words to do so, only to have them leave in a strangled growl when she bit into him, hard and fast. His eyes rolled completely back, and he gasped at the sensation of his beloved drinking from him. His hips moved almost desperately beneath her as he tried to force himself deeper into her hot, wet core, and he fell back against the mattress, taking her with him.

She was rapidly coming to the conclusion that she *liked* having him flat on his back. Of course, she also liked it when he had *her* that way, but... right at the moment... Her eyes were closed, and she was sucking strongly at the wound she'd just reopened in his straining neck, and he was deeper inside her than anyone but he had *ever* been, and... She couldn't help but move again. Her knees flexed, bending a bit more, and she slowly began to slip herself up and down his throbbing, cool shaft as she'd been doing moments earlier, and she moaned hard against his skin when his fingers began to flex in time with her movements.

He honestly didn't think that he could take any more of this. His entire body was singing, each nerve was tingling madly, and it was all because of this smallish redhead who'd taken him as her own! Her hot, slick center was grasping tightly at him, and her sweet, soft lips were attached firmly to his neck, and... He growled deeply when she began to move faster... harder... upon him. He could feel her inside him, just as deeply as he was in her, feel her delight in the taste of him, and... he was so close... so very close... He almost moaned when she pulled her lips from his skin, but then her hand was cupping his cheek, and he opened his golden eyes to meet hers, and... She was tilting her head in clear invitation, all the while maintaining the force and speed of her movements, and it was just too much! He growled out loud, and drove his sharp teeth into the unhealed mark he'd given her before, and as the amazing flavour of his Mated burst over his tongue, he arched hard up ! into her, almost screaming when her velvet walls clamped tightly around him.

Gods, she loved him! She loved the way he felt... in her mind, in her heart, in her slick, tight depths! She loved the way he trembled against her when he drank... loved the almost desperate thrusts while he did, and... Gods! His long, perfect cock was battering hard against her cervix, and her clit was rubbing harshly against his short, dark curls, and... when his hands closed even tighter on her hips, she screamed. "Spike... Spike... Spike..." She cried out again when she felt him pulsing hard within her, just the sensation of his cool seed flooding her womb driving her into another, more gentle, orgasm.

He was breathing hard, even though he knew he didn't need to. It was impossible for him to stop, though. He pulled his fangs reluctantly from her sweet neck, and held her tight upon him while he lapped delicately at the seeping wound. He could feel her still trembling upon him, and almost laughed when he realized that *he* was shuddering slightly, himself. Still, he couldn't bring himself to mind, because... she truly was *his*! He'd known it, intellectually, but... somehow, the fact that they'd drank each other again made the knowledge that much more solid and true in his secret heart of hearts, and... He would never let her go, and more than she would him. But he didn't want to think right at the moment. No, he wanted to just lay there, still buried deep inside his witch, and revel in the sensation of belonging to-- and with-- this glorious creature who had chosen to grace his existence with her own. "So..." he said softly, after a few minutes had passed in wondering silence, "*Good* morning, love," and he grinned at her answering giggles.

Faith groaned and pulled the pillow over her head in an effort to block the annoying ringing coming from the living room. Unfortunately, it didn't work, because she *still* thought she could hear it! She pressed herself back against her Mated's long, strong body, a small thrill rippling through her at the knowledge that *he* was-- entirely and completely-- *hers*! And, yeah, he was a vampire, but... he had a soul, and she truly thought that she would have loved him even without one. She smiled softly, one hand slipping behind her to stroke gently along his ribs. His skin was so smooth, and so cool...

He'd been awake for at least an hour, just enjoying the sensation of waking up beside her and knowing that she wasn't going anywhere without him. Unfortunately, the damned phone had started ringing, and now she was awake and annoyed. Of course, it wasn't the *awake* part that was irritating, it was the 'annoyed'. Here he'd planned to wake her slowly and happily, in the best way he knew how, and then...? Some bastard had to go and *call* them! He smiled when her fingers began trailing over his side, then sighed deeply as the phone continued its ringing. "I guess I'd better get that," he told her softly as he moved away from her, "I'll be right back, sweet..."

She watched him go, a small growl lodged in her chest, and after a moment, "Fuck it." she said, climbing from the bed herself. She snatched Angel's shirt up from the floor and pulled it over her head as she followed him out into the living room. She stood for a moment, just admiring the lines of him, and strode up behind him, wrapping her arms lightly around his waist, her cheek resting against his shoulder blade. She smiled, listening to his voice rumbling in his chest, and pressed a slow, soft kiss to the A in his tattoo. "Love you, Fang," she murmured as he hung up the phone.

Angel couldn't help but smile as he turned in her arms. He gazed down into her hot brown eyes, and sent a reassuring love and desire down the bond they shared. "You, too, Sweet..." he said aloud, wrapping his own arms around her. "You know you're everything to me, right?" he said softly, his own eyes deep and earnest.

Faith smiled what she just *knew* was a dopey grin. "Yeah, Fang," she responded, completely caught by his gaze, "And you are... to me, I mean..." She honestly thought that she could have stood there like that for days, just staring into him, but... "So," she made herself say, pulling her eyes from his, although she didn't even *try* to move from his arms, "Who was that? On the phone?"

The vampire smiled softly, wanting nothing more than to just hold her forever. "One of Darla's lieutenants. We're supposed to meet her in the bar." He pulled his Mated closer, cradling her head against his chest. "She wanted us to be there *now*, but I explained that we might need some time... New mating and all." His smile turned into a slightly wicked grin when she shifted against him to meet his eyes.

She smirked into his suddenly hot eyes, and chuckled softly, low and husky. "Still, I don't guess we should keep her waiting *too* long... Maybe a quickie?" Her fingers moved firmly up and down his spine, her nails grazing his skin, and she chuckled again when he groaned. "Wha'd'ya say, Fang...? We could..." she gazed at him lustfully as her voice trailed off.

He was about to answer her when he heard the sounds coming from his childe's room, and his smile became a good bit wider. "No... not a quickie, Sweet... After all, she wants to see *all* of us, and I think Spike and Willow are going to *be* a while. Come on!" He lifted her in his arms and strode quickly back to their room. "You know," he said, staring at her intently once he'd set her on her feet and locked their door, "I don't think I've told how much I like seeing you in my shirts..."

Faith grinned, and slowly began to unbutton the silk she wore. "Really... 'cause *I* kinda thought you liked seeing me *out* of them better..."

Angel moved slowly to the bed and sat on its edge, eyes locked on his Mated. "Oh, I *do*," he almost purred, "But when you *have* to wear clothes? I like that they're mine, more often than not..."

The dark haired former Slayer flipped her hair coyly, and slid the shirt from her shoulders. "Well," she said silkily, moving the few feet needed until she was standing between his legs, "Why take a lover if it doesn't at least double your wardrobe? Not that I want you to start wearing *my* clothes or anything, but..." She shrugged, her eyes resting firmly on his glorious face as she reached out and stroked his cheek.

He almost laughed at the mental image of himself in one of Faith's little tank tops, but... her hot, slender fingers were touching his face, and she was naked and only inches away, so... he'd laugh later, he decided, and he closed his eyes, leaning into her sweet touch as he let his demon slip from its hiding place. "True," he finally murmured, moving his head until her fingers were stroking lightly at his brow ridges, "Besides... I'd rather wear *you*... just wrap you around me and wear you like a cloak..."

She smiled slightly, and pushed him back against the bed. "Wear me, then," she sighed, lowering herself onto his long, thick cock.

Darla wasn't exactly seething, but she was *definitely* annoyed. She'd been waiting in this damned bar with Drusilla and Xander for almost an hour now, and *none* of the people they were there to see had made so much as an appearance! She actually understood that, in the case of Angelus and Faith, but... she'd have though that William and his witch would have shown by now. After all, it was only polite! She took a long sip of her fairly good Mai Tai, and glowered at her grand childe. "I thought you said the witch was reliable."

Drusilla smiled slightly, one finger trailing endlessly around the top of her glass. "She *is*, Grandmother. But as I tried to tell you in the car, she's got other things on her mind right now..."

Darla sighed. "That may well be true, Dru, but I'm *still* the Master of Seattle, and she *is* the claimed of one of my line! She should *be* here by now. As should William." She crossed her eyes and glared at the dark haired vampire.

Xander shook his head slightly, wondering what in the *Hell* Willow was thinking. Of all people, he'd've thought *she'd* know enough not to antagonize the woman who basically *owned* the entire city. "Maybe," he volunteered hopefully, "Maybe she's caught up in researching the prophecy?"

Dru shook her head quickly. "No. And grandmother," she added, "She's not Spike's claimed anymore... She's his Mated..." She barely managed to hide her smirk when the blonde woman groaned.

"Oh... Hell." Darla muttered, "It's like a contagious *disease*! Next thing I know, the Gathering will be just a big old orgy! *Perfect*!" She stood, draining her glass, and walked quickly to the bar, ignoring the path that opened automatically for her. "I'm going to need a pitcher of margaritas," she told the ever-attentive barkeep, "And a *straw*." She returned to the table, smiling slightly when her great grand childe rose to seat her. "So," she said, once her pitcher was in front of her, "We may be here for a while. Dru," she ordered, "Tell me more about Sunnydale... and this *witch* of yours."

Chapter 3

"*Finally*!" the blonde said loudly, glaring slightly at the four people who had just approached her table, "I thought I was going to have to send someone after you!"

Spike snorted softly, pulling his woman closer to his side. "Yeah, right, Darla; it hasn't been *that* long..." He was distracted by his witch's fingers dancing along his side, and he turned to meet her sly green eyes. "And enough of that, love," he purred, his hand covering hers, "Or I'll have to take you back upstairs, and..."

Willow giggled softly. (Oh, and that would be just *terrible*, wouldn't it, my heart?) She laughed a bit louder at the look on his face, and sighed dramatically. (Fine,) she thought at him, (I'll *wait*, but not for *too* long!)

{W... Willow?} he tried replying, eyes wide at the sensation of 'hearing' her, {Love?} He smiled a bit dazedly when she nodded slightly and sent a short bolt of adoration through their bond, his hand on her waist twitching slightly.

Angel exchanged one quick glance of amusement with his own Mated, and pulled out a chair for her, laughing when she motioned him into it. His lips stretched into a broad smile as he sat, and his grin became wider still when she perched herself on his knee. "All right, Darla," he said quickly, arms wrapping tightly around his girl's trim waist, "What's going on?"

The Master of Seattle rolled her eyes at her grand childe and great grand childe, and pulled her almost empty pitcher closer. "Xander may have discovered something about the prophecies we're dealing with. I thought it was *important* that you all hear it. Of course, if you have *better* things to do, then never mind." She found herself thoroughly satisfied by the guilty look that crossed Angelus' face, only to find her contentment shattered by the loud snort coming from the former Slayer, and the equally obvious laugh from the bleached blond. That's what's wrong with the world, she told herself-- no *respect*! "What's so funny?" she demanded.

Faith chuckled, amused, as she wrapped one arm around her Mated's neck. "Sorry, Darla, but *think* about it... Listen to *Xander* talking about *prophecies*-- no offense, Xander-- or have my wild, wicked way with your childe, here?" She laughed again. "Hmmm... tough decision..."

"Faith..." Angel put in, warningly, "The prophecies are important..." [Don't antagonize her, sweet,] he added silently, [Even if I *do* agree with you right now, we have to *deal* with this!]

::I *know*, Fang, but... She's just so much fun to fuck with, I can't *help* it!:: Her fingers rubbed lightly at the hair at the nape of his neck, and she smiled slightly. ::She's jealous, you know... That you're mine, I mean...::

Spike laughed again and sat down beside his Mated. "Yeah. They're *important*. So's reinforcing this brand new bond with my Red, here, so let's get this out of the way, already, right?" His hand rested lightly on Willow's slender thigh, and he traced abstract patterns on the denim she wore, his tongue slipping out to lick his lips when her eyes met his.

Darla barely held back a groan at the sexual tension rising thickly from the two Mated pairs, and nodded impatiently at her great grand childe. "Fine. Xander, tell them what you told *us*," she ordered, her tone clearly instructing him to be *quick* about it.

The young vampire's eyes darted quickly around the table, finally coming to rest on the obviously happy form of his former best friend. Of all of them there, she was still the one he was the most comfortable with, and while he appreciated his Great Grand Sire giving him the credit for what he'd figured out, he was a little... afraid of telling his thoughts to this group of older vamps, not to mention the former Slayer. "Well, it's like *this*," he began, only to stop when he saw the familiar dark blue clad shape stalk into the bar. "Hold on," he interrupted himself, "Angela's here. She might be able to help, too." He stood and waved, catching the girl's eye, and as she started weaving her way through the crowd, he sat again. "She was in on the whole 'we're the Seven' thing, so... maybe she'll have some ideas, you know?" He snaked out an arm and dragged a suddenly empty chair from a nearby table, and when the auburn-haired beauty finally reached them, she found a place ready for her right beside the youngest vamp. "Okay," Xander went on, after a brief explanation, "It's like this..."

"Stop with the pacing, already, Rupert," Cordelia demanded, tossing her long dark hair over her shoulder irritably. "She'll get in touch when she has something to tell us!"

Giles groaned impatiently, and flung himself down on the couch beside his girlfriend. "I know, Cord," he said quickly, sighing at her glare, "It's just... I hate *waiting*! I hate not knowing what's going on!" He sighed again, turning slightly, and lay down, his head in Cordelia's lap while he stared up into her eyes. "And with *Dru* gone, as well, I just..." He shrugged slightly, his eyes closing when her warm, slender fingers plucked the glasses from his face.

Cordelia smiled softly, gently smoothing his furrowed brow. "You feel like you're out of the loop. I know. But you're not." She chuckled a bit when his eyes opened for just a moment to gaze at her disbelievingly. "Well, okay, you *are*, at least as far as whatever's happening in San Francisco goes, but... Oz and the pack are keeping you up to date on what's happening here in Sunnydale, Willie's been *way* cooperative ever since he realized that Willow isn't here to rein Buffy in, and as for Buffy, herself, well..." she shrugged. "She's been behaving, more or less, so... Don't worry so much. You're doing your job, and you're doing it *well*! I mean," she continued, her voice suddenly teasing, "Do you think I'd be sticking around if you were a big loser?"

Giles laughed, his fingers sliding up her smooth, slim arm. "No," he said silkily, "I don't suppose you would..."

The Slayer stood in the doorway, her discomfort clear on her face. "Ewww... it's bad enough that I *know* you two are together-- do I have to *see* it, too?"

The brunette giggled, holding her lover to her when he would have pulled away. "You could always close your eyes," she suggested helpfully, "Of course, you'd still be able to *hear* us..."

Buffy shuddered at the reminder of the one night she'd spent on Giles and Cordelia's couch, and paled as her stomach churned. "No," she said hastily, "Seeing is *good*! Really, *really* good! Uh-huh, I'm all about *seeing*! Yup!"

The Watcher sighed and forced himself to sit up. "All right, Buffy. You've made your point. Now, what are you doing here? It's certainly not time to patrol yet..."

Cordelia frowned, annoyed at being interrupted. "What with it being all sunshine-y and bright out, and all," she said pointedly, her eyes narrowing as she glared at the girl.

The blonde grimaced and twirled one badly-dyed lock of hair around her finger. "Yeah. That's kinda what I wanted to talk to you about. I've been busting my butt since Willow's been gone, and..." she swallowed hard. "Could I... maybe I could have a night off? 'Cause there's this guy," she continued in a rush, "He's a TA for one of my classes, and... he wants to take me to a movie tonight, so... can I? Please? *Please*?"

Giles looked expressionlessly at the girl for a long moment before turning his attention to the brunette beside him. "What do you think, Cordelia? Shall we give Buffy a night off?"

The dark-haired girl made a point of looking like she was thinking it over, carefully keeping the glee from her eyes. "Maybe..." she finally said, meeting the Slayer's pleading brown eyes. "What's his name?"

Buffy smiled slightly, and continued to beg with her expression and tone of voice. "Riley," she answered desperately, "Riley Finn! And he's only a couple years older than me, and he's got really nice arms, and..."

"Fine!" Giles said quickly, not wanting to hear any more, "Go to the cinema with this Riley chap, but I'll expect you to be here tomorrow night, ready to slay!"

The blonde's eyes flew wide, and she stammered out her thanks even as she ran from the room and the shop. Cordelia turned amused eyes to her lover. "You barely made her suffer at *all*," she pouted.

"Yes, well," the englishman responded smoothly as he stood and pulled her from the couch, "I figured the sooner she was gone, the sooner I could take you *home*, sweetheart..."

"*Good* *plan*," the brunette purred, smiling up into his eyes, "*Very* good *plan*..." She pulled away and crossed the room, setting the private line to forward to their apartment. "So let's go..."

"It's obvious," Angela said softly into the silence at the table. "If the two prophesies are actually the *same*, then... When this demon-- Master... whatever-- finally rises, then... maybe he'll be more attentive at first, and then when he doesn't find any immediate resistance, he'll relax some...?" She glanced quickly around at her new 'friends'. "Maybe that's why the warning is stronger for the earlier date...? Or am I... missing something...?" She didn't notice that her fingers were clutching tightly at Xander's hand while she waited for some response.

Willow and Faith exchanged slightly surprised glances, Willow's because her former best friend had never gravitated towards *bright* girls-- not romantically, anyway-- and Faith because... well, she'd known Angela was smart as a whip, but she'd never expected the girl to see something that the rest of them had missed entirely... or not so *quickly*, in any case.

It was Spike, however, who broke the silence. He leaned forward over the table, and took the auburn-haired girl's free hand in his own. "*You*," he intoned seriously, "Are a bloody *marvel*, precious." He smiled slightly as he brought her hand to his lips and brushed a small kiss across her knuckles. He chuckled slightly when the young, dark-haired vampire growled softly, and he released the girl's hand, his eyes meeting his Sire's. "Angel?" he inquired.

The souled vampire nodded swiftly as he processed all of the information he'd just received. "It's a better hypothesis than any *we've* come up with," he agreed.

Faith smirked slightly, her chest shaking with silent laughter. :: Couldn't just say 'Yeah, you're right', could you, Fang?:: she sent to him, almost laughing out loud when his eyes widened. ::I mean, really... 'hypothesis'... Way to condescend, lover!::

Angel grimaced slightly before nodding his grudging agreement with her comment. [Sorry, Sweet, but... I should have thought of that myself. I'm supposed to be smart, you know!]

The former Slayer smiled softly and lightly nudged the sensitive spot behind his ear with the tip of her nose. ::You *are* smart, Fang,:: she told him silently, ::You Mated *me*, after all, didn't you?::

(Thank you, my love,) Willow thought at her Mated, her fingers dancing slowly along his leg, (Thank you for approving of Xander's choice of a girl... He worships you, you know...)

Spike smirked slightly, his own fingers digging deeply, but gently, into her hip. {He's not a bad lad, pet... although he's much *smarter* than I thought...}

(Not as smart as *you*,) she replied, her heart racing from his touch. (Can we...?) she asked wistfully, wanting nothing more than to take him back upstairs.

Darla sighed as Spike stood suddenly, followed swiftly by Angel and Faith, *and* the little redheaded witch. "Fine," she said irritably, before any of them could speak, "But tonight, we need to deal with this, so I'd suggest... shagging yourselves *stupid* today. Try to get it out of your systems enough that you can spend more than forty-five minutes away from the bedroom!" She stood, motioning to Dru and Xander. "Midnight," she said decisively, swaying slightly from the large quantities of alcohol she'd consumed, and took Xander's extended arm as she left the bar.

Drusilla smiled slightly, meeting Willow's eyes. "I'm glad you've found your happiness in my brother, Will," she said quickly, well aware of the fact that Darla would be impatient to leave. "And Spike," she continued, "Treat her *right*, because if you don't, and I have to choose between you...?" She raised one eyebrow at him, "No contest."

The bleached blond smiled just a bit wickedly. "Don't worry, *sis*," he said mockingly, "I'm gonna treat my Mated so well, she'll never even *think* about being unhappy!" He pulled his hand from Willow's, and drew her smallish body tight against him. "Right, pet?" he purred into her green eyes.

Dru rolled her eyes and slinked away from the table, following the path her Grand Sire and her childe had taken only moments earlier. It wasn't as though they even knew she was there, anymore, anyway.

It had been less than two hours since they'd left their bed, but Willow could have sworn it had been at least a *year*! But his hands were tight on her back, and his lips were firm, but cool, on her neck, and... she quickly pushed the shirt from his body, groaning loudly when she encountered the ever-present t-shirt beneath it. "Spike..." she almost whined, pulling the cotton from the waistband of his jeans.

He'd barely been able to contain himself on the trip back to their suite, and he almost *hadn't* made it to the bedroom. But he'd forced himself to hold back until they were behind closed, locked doors. Now, of course, he had no reason to refrain, and his hands moved swiftly over her tight, precious body, her clothes falling away in their wake. "Will..." he groaned in response, his cock throbbing wildly as she unfastened his jeans and pushed them frantically to his knees, and as much as he wanted to wait until he was fully naked, he couldn't help himself. "Willow..." he moaned loudly, tearing the small scrap of silk thong from her too-tempting flesh.

She gasped happily when his arms wrapped tightly around her waist, and gasped again as he collapsed back onto the floor. "Spike...!" she cried, his tight hold taking her along for the ride. "Love you, Spike," she sighed, once they'd settled.

His eyes closed in desperation as he felt her sweet, wet center against his turgid shaft. "Love you, too, pet," he grunted, lifting her and sliding her hot core fully onto him. His hands gripped her smooth hips, even as he moaned at the sensation of being buried completely within her. "Willow..." he whispered as she began to move.

She slipped herself swiftly up and down his throbbing cock, her eyes closing for just a moment while she maneuvered his t-shirt from his pale, hard flesh. Gods, she loved him so *much*! He filled her so *perfectly*! And he was her Mated; she'd never have to be without him! She tossed the expanse of cotton aside, and her eyes opened, feasting on his smooth, white skin. "Mine..." she sighed determinedly, her gaze locked on his suddenly ridged face as she continued to slide herself upon him.

He felt his demon surging forth, but she loved *all* of him, and he all of her, and... then she twisted her hips slightly, and he growled. "Bloody *hell*, woman!" he groaned, his fingers clutching tightly at her. His golden eyes opened, and he watched her, fascinated, as she took him hard and fast. He could feel each sensitive, swollen inch of him sliding deep into her, and he growled again, bending his knees and thrusting up into her.

He'd moved his legs, and now she could feel her clit grinding against his short, dark curls each time she moved, and it was amazing! "Spike!" she cried, and "Spike!" again when he slammed up deep into her. The hooded tip of his perfect cock was slamming hard against her cervix, and she felt more open to him than she ever had before, and the only thing that could make this better was...

He almost screamed when she laid herself flat atop him, and he *did* release a strangled-sounding shriek when he felt her lips attach themselves to his neck. Of course, that was *nothing* to the harsh yell he let out when her blunt teeth drove into the healed bite she'd given him the night before. His back arched hard, and he slammed up into her once... twice... three more times, and his own sharp fangs penetrated deep into her sweet, salty neck as he came, and came, filling her tender womb with his cool, viscous seed.

They'd made it to the bed, but that was all Angel could say for himself and his Mated, because... Her hands had been on him, and her lips, too, and just the thought of being buried deep inside her had been almost too much for him. Of course, that was the moment she chose to bite him hard, and... as embarrassing as it was, he'd gone and shot off in his pants like a school-boy. Fortunately, she'd been anything but upset, and now...? Well now they were both fully naked, and he was planted firmly within her, and...

She was entirely satisfied with herself, because... she'd made him cum in his pants! Her hands had been roving over his cool, hard flesh, and she'd bitten him-- as was her right, as his Mated One-- and she'd felt him jerk against her, and had known immediately what his disgusted growl had meant. Of course, *he'd* thought that she'd be upset, but... How *could* she be? She was actually *flattered*, more than anything else! After all, he'd been excited enough about being with her that he'd gone and cum from just the sensation of her teeth piercing his skin! And fortunately, he had that whole 'vampiric stamina' thing going for him, so... what was there to be upset about? "Angel..." she groaned deeply, her hips rising to meet his almost desperate thrusts, "Baby..." Her eyes were closed, and her mind almost blank, but... God, he felt so *good* inside her! He always *had*, and she hoped he always *would*. But she wasn't going to think about the prophecy right now. "Fang..."

He heard her panting hard beneath him; felt her chest filling with air, and emptying almost frantically, and he smirked slightly, slowing his motions. "Sweet..." he growled, responding to her moans. He stroked slowly and deeply into her, forcing himself just a little bit deeper when he'd filled her completely, and he groaned, his true face rising to the fore. "Sweet... *Faith*..." he muttered, feeling her opening even further to him, "Love you, baby... love you... love you..."

Her fingers clenched tightly at his ass, and her legs rose a bit so she could take him even deeper, and when she felt the broad, cool head of his shaft farther inside her than she would have thought possible, she keened softly, her nails drawing blood. "Fang...!" she cried out, her body demanding the rush of his release.

His unnecessary breath caught in his throat, and he pressed himself deeper into his Mated than he'd ever been before, his lips and teeth finding their way to the spot on her neck that he'd made his own. His hips twisted harshly against her, even as he felt her nails piercing his skin, and as she cried out, he sank his sharp fangs deep into the same bite he'd given he that first night they'd Mated each other. His eyes slammed shut, and he growled softly against her skin as he shot his thick, milky seed violently into her shaking depths. "Mine," he sighed, barely able to pull his mouth from her for that one word.

"Mine," she echoed, her own teeth driving deep into the mark on his neck again.

Buffy stared fixedly at the sleeping form of Riley Finn. They'd gone to the movies, and for coffee afterwards, and... She supposed she should feel badly, but she didn't! She'd seduced him, plain and simple. But he was a nice guy, and her only real concern was that he might find out about her 'secret identity', because if *that* happened...? Well, she was *screwed*! But, whatever, she decided, watching him snore. He was a decent catch, and he was actually *interesting*! And who knew? Maybe he'd be able to deal with the knowledge that there actually *were* things that went 'bump' in the night!

Either way, she decided, she deserved to be happy, and... maybe *this* guy would make her that way? There was a good chance, she told herself... especially if his tender taking of her virginity was any indication.

She snuggled softly against his back, ignoring the fact that he'd turned away as soon as he'd cum. At least he *had* cum... that *had* to mean that he *liked* her... right?

Chapter 4

Angela sighed unhappily, even as she read the missive from her clan yet again. They didn't understand, and she had no idea of how to make it clear to them. The vampires, the witch, and the Slayer *were* the Seven who had been prophesied; there was no doubt about *that*, but... Her clan's ideas of how to make the Seven more effective just wouldn't *work*.

Oh, they *might* have, if the people involved weren't so very... unique, but they were, and she just didn't see them allowing themselves to be manipulated the way the Elders thought was foolproof. Maybe it really *was* foolproof. The problem was, none of the Seven were *fools*! Hell, Xander was the youngest and goofiest of the bunch, and even *he* would never fall for the obvious ploys the clan were pushing.

Still, it was *her* mission, in the end, and if ignoring her orders was necessary, in order to make things work out right? Then she'd do just that, and damn the consequences. She'd probably be expelled-- shunned for her disobedience, but... "Damn it, they knew what I was like before they sent me here," she cried into the still air of her room. A sigh made up of equal parts anger and sorrow slipped from her then, and she sat down on the edge of her bed. "The Seven have to succeed," she reminded herself, her own voice providing some small sense of comfort, "That's more important than my standing within the clan. Hell, if they *don't* pull this off, there won't even *be* a clan anymore!"

That simple statement of fact soothed her inner turmoil, and she sighed one more time, in resignation. She'd been fighting the impulse to tell her new friends everything, almost from the start; mostly because she hadn't been certain of whether it was due to some instinct telling her they needed to know, or because of her own reaction to-- and interest in-- the young vampire, Xander. She honestly thought she might love him, but she'd put that aside out of concern for the clan. That was no longer an option.

She had to tell them all the truth, or at least, as much of it as she knew. And if that meant they would choose not to trust her? Then so be it. She'd been keeping her secret from them all, even Faith, but the time for secrets was long passed. She only hoped they'd be willing to listen to her, and maybe... Maybe, she thought hopefully, Xander wouldn't hate her *too* much.

She glanced quickly at the clock, and forced herself to stand. A quarter to twelve. Fifteen minutes to change her mind before she had to meet Xander and the others in Willow's suite.

Drusilla glared hotly at her best friend, wishing yet again that she hadn't shown up early. This wasn't a conversation she wanted to have, but apparently, she didn't have much of a choice in the matter. "You can't tell them, Will," she repeated one more time, "I told you that in the very beginning. Humans can't know about the Gatherings unless they're connected to one of the Orders!"

Willow's own eyes hardened into a matching glare, and she growled slightly, ignoring the surprised look on her friend's face at the sound. "Damn it, Dru, I *have* *to*! They need to know what's going on here, and how else can I explain it? It's not like I could have gotten this kind of information from the San Fran coven, and you know it!" She groaned quietly as another thought occurred to her. "And if I don't tell them, how do I explain Spike, huh? What do I say about that? 'Oh, this is my Mated. I stumbled upon him at my aunt's wedding, and yes, he's a vampire, but you can't kill him. And by the way, he's a part of this prophecy, too, along with *another* vampire and *his* Mated, who used to be a Slayer! Oh, and the second vamp? Well, he's Dru's Sire, and you can't kill *him*, either.'?" A bitter laugh flew from her lips. "I don't think so!"

The vampire twirled a strand of long, dark hair around her finger, silently admitting that Willow was right. If things had gone the way they'd planned, there wouldn't have been a problem, but as things were? Too much had changed. There was no way they'd be able to fake their group back home into believing that all that had happened had come from working with a coven; *especially* the additions of Spike, Angelus, and Faith to their group. And they would have to be added, because she couldn't see Spike being willing to let his Mated go her own way after all was said and done-- assuming they survived. She also couldn't see Angelus abandoning his blond-headed childe or *his* Mated, and she just knew that Willow wouldn't be willing to stay away from Sunnydale indefinitely. "We're fucked," she finally groaned, the full picture of just how screwed they actually were settling over her mind. "We can't tell them without making them targets, but... we can't *not* tell them, either. *Fuck*!"

The redhead nodded and flung herself down on the couch next to her best friend. "You said it, Dru..."

Spike watched his witch through the glass balcony door, his dead body ignoring the cold. He hated seeing her so distressed; hated the fact that it was his fault, too. "I shouldn't have claimed her," he said softly, sadness creeping into his tone.

Angel's eyes settled firmly on his childe, and he frowned slightly. "She makes you happy," he said, after a moment, "And you make *her* happy. And she's not just your *claimed*, now, Spike, she's your *Mated*!" He shook his head in confusion, completely baffled by his childe's attitude.

"I know that, Angel," the blond sighed, refusing to rise to the bait, "But being mine has made her life difficult, regardless of whether I meant it to or not. She can't tell her friends about me, but..." He sighed again, deeply. "I can't let her go, either."

The dark-haired man nodded slowly, understanding *that*, at least. There was no way in heaven or hell that he could ever let Faith go; he knew better than to even try. "So we find a way around this; that's all. A way for Willow to tell her friends *without* getting them killed. Then we can do this thing, save the world, and head to Sunnydale, right?" He laughed wickedly when Spike's blue eyes focused swiftly on him. "What? You didn't think you were going to get rid of us *that* easily, did you?" His lips twitched into a smirk, and he shook his head in mock disbelief. "And after your Mated went and pointed out that we're a *family*. You don't just... walk away from family, boy."

Spike's eyes widened slightly as a sudden surge of hope flowed through him. If he and Angel put their heads together with Dru, Willow and Faith? Well, maybe they could come up with some sort of a solution. It wouldn't necessarily be perfect, but it would be a *hell* of a lot better than doing nothing. "Right you are, Sire," he said, smiling widely, "So let's go chat this out with the girls, why don't we?" His fingers were itching to touch his Mated, anyway; might as well get something accomplished while he did.

Angel's grin faded as he followed his childe back into their suite. He was nowhere near as certain as he'd sounded, but... maybe there *was* some hope, after all.

If she shook her head any more, she thought she might get dizzy. "No, no, no!" she kept saying, even though she understood the reasons behind the request Angelus, Spike, and Drusilla were making. "It isn't possible. Nobody outside the Orders can know about our meetings, and *especially* not people connected to the Slayer! I mean, come on, children, *think* about it!" Her frank eyes speared each of them in turn before moving on to the two mostly-human girls. "Look, Faith, I know you were a Slayer yourself, but... If you hadn't met my childe... hadn't fallen for him, and Mated to him? If you'd just... *heard* about this. What would you have done?" Darla smirked almost invisibly, and settled back in her chair.

Faith's fingers wound tightly through her Mated's, and she smirked a bit, herself. "Pretty much exactly what I *did* do, Darla," she announced. "I *did* 'just hear about it'. That's why I was here in the *first* place." She shrugged slightly, her eyes locked on the Master of the City. "I wanted to see what the big deal was, and... Honestly? I never really trusted the Watcher's Council. They were *way* too interested in trying to make me feel like a slaying machine. Then I got here, and I met your childe, and... well, the rest is history, right?"

Angel chuckled, heartily enjoying the sight of his so-self-possessed Sire stunned speechless. "I prefer to think of it as 'the rest is *legend*', Sweets, but... whatever works for you..." [Faith, honey, you've *got* to teach me how to do that!] he thought at her.

The former Slayer chuckled silently. :: Just tell her the last thing she expects to hear, and make it sound like it should have been obvious, Fang... Works every time!::

Willow rolled her eyes at her own Mated, well aware-- by the besotted looks on their faces-- that Angel and Faith were 'talking'. Still, amusement aside, they needed to figure this out. "Okay, Darla," she said, trying to sound completely reasonable, "I understand what you're saying; really, I do, but... Giles and Cordelia can *help* us! They're incredible with the research aspects of the whole prophecy thing, and..." She sighed, leaning against her Mated when the blonde woman shook her head. "You actually have a point about Buffy, though. Sadly, she's not the smartest girl I've ever seen. She'd probably run here as fast as her little Slayer-legs could carry her, and try to take all the guests out, one by one." Her smile returned quickly, when she felt Spike shaking from holding in his laughter.

Angela watched and listened silently. She was going to tell them the truth, but apparently, they wanted to figure their little problem out before they fell to discussing the actual things that had brought them there. Finally, she cleared her throat. "Uh... okay, guys, just one quick question?" She smiled gratefully at Xander when he nodded encouragingly and moved just a bit closer to her. "If... if humans can't know about *this*," she continued, gesturing vaguely enough to include the whole hotel, "Then... how did Willow know to come here?"

"I told her," Dru admitted, from her place by the far wall. "We needed the information, so I told her about the Gatherings, and asked her to come here as my servant. She agreed, I bit her, and... here we are."

The auburn-haired girl nodded, her brow furrowing slightly above her glasses. "Okay. So that connected her to your Order, which means she's... allowed to know, right?" Her eyes focused on Darla as the most senior of those present. "So, maybe this is stupid, but... why can't this Giles and Cordelia be brought in, too? I mean," she rushed on, hoping to get this portion of the conversation resolved quickly, "Make them servants, or whatever, and you can tell them what they need to know, right? And if this Buffy is as... well, stupid... as she sounds, why would she even need to know? She already accepts Dru, so... why not Dru's family? It's not like Angel and Spike are evil, after all."

"Hey!" Spike cried, struggling to straighten his spine, "I'm *plenty* evil, little girl! You take that back!" He growled deeply when the entire room filled with laughter, and frowned at his Mated, feeling betrayed.

"Oh, yes, Spike," Xander said, still chuckling in amusement, "Because sitting on a couch in a fuzzy sweater and blue jeans, with a little redhead curled up against you just *screams* 'the Devil Himself'!"

"Well, *I* think you're evil, honey," Willow told him, placing a soft kiss on his cheek.

"And don't patronize me," he ordered, leaning into her lips none the less.

Willow sighed softly, even as she closed the door behind Darla and Dru. They'd talked for almost two more hours before coming to the conclusion that Angela's suggestion was the best way to go. They were lucky to have stumbled upon the girl, she knew. Still, it would have been nice if they could have actually managed to discuss the bloody prophecies. A bright smile crossed her face as she realized she'd just used one of her Mated's words in her own head, and thinking of him, she reached out. (Spike?) she thought at him, a small pout replacing her smile when he remained stubbornly silent. She could feel him moping in their room, and she moved swiftly across the living room, only to stop in their doorway. "What's wrong, love?" she asked lightly, stepping inside and closing the door gently behind her.

Keeping himself from smiling was the hardest thing he'd ever done, but he managed it, though just barely. "You think I'm a ponce, like my Sire," he said sadly, putting a great dose of self-pity in his voice. His entire body was itching for his witch, but she'd laughed at him, after all.

She widened her eyes to their limits, trying to look surprised. Her Mated was faking! He was playing up like his feelings were hurt, and he apparently wanted her to make it all better. Well, she would, she promised herself smugly. She'd make it so much better, he wouldn't even know what hit him! It was with that thought in mind that she moved slowly towards the bed, shedding clothes with each step. "Now, Spike," she purred, a slight dangerous glint in her eyes, "If I thought you were a... ponce?... Would I even *be* here? Hmmm?" One brow arched in question as she placed her knee on the edge of the bed, her other knee joining it as she crawled across the broad expanse of cotton-covered mattress. "I think you're the nastiest, meanest, *cruelest* bastard who ever lived. Or died, for that matter. Your very presence should send every other creature screaming into the light." She lowered her face to the skin of his leg, keeping a carefully small distance between her nose and his flesh as she slowly crept up his naked body. "You're the thing parents fear telling their children about; the creature that has all humans terrified, even while denying your existence." She gazed at him from under her lashes, deliberately allowing her warm breath to fan out across the head of his swiftly hardening cock, and she licked her lips, teasing him without a single touch. "The angels themselves tremble at the knowledge that you walk the earth, and demons hide at your passing." Her heart beat even faster when she reached his face, and she stared deep into his gold-flecked blue eyes. "You're a wicked, bad, *evil* vampire, my love," she finished, "And you own me."

"Bloody hell, woman," Spike groaned, wrapping his arms hard around her torso as he rolled her beneath him, "Flattery like *that* will get you everywhere..." His lips claimed hers roughly, cutting off her voice, and neither of them had anything to say for a long while after that... with words, anyway.

End.

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